wonders: Can Fernando do 1/285th?
The M4A3 was developed as a replacement model for the M4 and M4A1. There are two major features that you can use to identify an M4A3 Sherman tank.
While the M4A3 improved the breed, some things still needed to be addressed. One of the critical flaws was the fact that the tank's ammo tended to catch on fire with practically every hit. To fix this, designers added 'wet' stowage ammo racks. They also added another hatch on the top of the turret to help the crew get out faster.
The front end of the M4A3 also underwent some changes. The drivers' hatches were made larger, prompting the front armor plate to be tilted at a steeper angle. Extra armor protection was also added. The M4A3 (late) model first saw action as replacement vehicles from September 1944, and served to the end of the war.
The M4A3 (76mm) married the new M4A3 hull with the 76mm gun, making for a fast, hard-hitting tank. This gave U.S. tank crews a definite edge over German medium tanks, as well as giving Panther and Tiger crews something to truly fear.
Like the other late M4A3 models, you can recognize the M4A3 (76mm) tank by its steep front armor plating and crew hatches. Of course, the 76mm gun is another dead give-away, but once again the turret was redesigned, and the loader's hatch was made into a single-piece oval hatch. The M4A3 (76mm) came into service alongside the M4A3 (late) models in September, 1944.
The 105mm assault-gun variant was developed to lend serious firepower to the fight. Their role was to use their high-caliber shells to knock out enemy infantry and gun positions.
The assault gun was based on both the older M4 and the late M4A3 chassis, and are similar to those models in appearance.
Designed by Will Jayne
Painted by Aaron Mathie